Homemade Pasta with Fresh Tomato Sauce

This simple yet delicious homemade pasta recipe will undoubtedly become a favorite in your household. If you're looking for an easy and tasty meal that doesn't take too much time to prepare, this is the perfect choice for you! The dish can be enjoyed as a main course or as part of a larger meal.

Ingredients:

• 200 grams (7 ounces) all-purpose flour
• 1 egg
• Salt to taste
• 3-4 fresh tomatoes, peeled and chopped finely
• Olive oil for frying
• Parmesan cheese (optional)

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 2-3 people

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Mix the flour and salt in a large bowl. Make a well in the center of the mixture.

2. In another small bowl, beat the egg lightly with a fork or whisk. Pour it into the well you created earlier. Gradually mix the dry ingredients with the wet ones until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

3. Once kneaded properly, cover the dough and let it rest for at least half an hour. After resting, roll out the pasta to about 3-4 mm thickness using a rolling pin or pasta maker. Cut into desired shapes (fettuccine, lasagna sheets etc.).

4. In another pan, heat some olive oil on medium heat. Add the finely chopped tomatoes and let them cook until they form a thick sauce. Season with salt to taste.

5. Bring water to boil in a large pot; add a generous amount of salt. Drop the pasta into boiling water when it's completely covered. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente (tender but still firm).

6. Pour the warm sauce over the cooked pasta and toss to combine. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Why Choose Homemade Pasta?

Making homemade pasta is not only rewarding but also healthier than store-bought varieties. It allows you full control over ingredients used, thus ensuring freshness and reducing the risk of consuming preservatives or additives. Furthermore, it's a great way to involve children in the cooking process, teaching them about nutrition and healthy eating habits from an early age.

Another reason why homemade pasta is superior lies within its texture. Hand-crafted pasta tends to be more flavorful due to the slower drying process which allows for better absorption of flavors. Additionally, it has a slightly denser consistency compared to packaged products, providing a richer mouthfeel and satisfying experience.

Tips and Variations:

To enhance the flavor even further, try adding some fresh herbs like basil or oregano directly into your tomato sauce towards the end of cooking. For those who enjoy spicier foods, consider stirring in a pinch of red pepper flakes during the last few minutes when the pasta is almost done.

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Incorporating vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers into the sauce can make this dish even healthier. You might also want to explore different types of pasta shapes according to your preference and occasion - whether you're having guests over or simply enjoying a quiet dinner at home.

Conclusion:

Cooking homemade pasta with fresh tomato sauce is an excellent way to enjoy a delightful meal while spending quality time in the kitchen. Whether it's for special occasions, family dinners, or just casual weeknight suppers, this versatile recipe offers endless possibilities tailored to individual tastes and preferences.